The Theater an der Wien is buzzing with excitement as it prepares to reopen its doors on October 12th after undergoing renovations and modernization. Intendant Stefan Herheim is thrilled to bring this beautiful, historic venue back to life, bridging the gap between the past and the present in a contemporary way. The renovation project, which was completed despite economic challenges, has brought the theater up to modern technological standards.
The reopening, however, will not go as smoothly as planned due to delays in the renovation of the stage technology. The first staged production will have to wait until January to be presented to the audience.
Comprehensive Renovations
Numerous improvements have been made to the Theater an der Wien, some of which are not immediately visible to the public. Dry rot remediation, safety and fire protection enhancements, complete upgrades to electrical systems, heating and ventilation, as well as cold and hot water installations have been carried out. The structural integrity of the stage has been reinforced. On the other hand, the fresh facade of the building is a noticeable change. The last renovation of the theater was in 1962, and elements from that era, such as mosaic floors in the foyer and restored lighting fixtures, have been preserved. Additionally, efforts have been made to provide more space for the audience, including a wider staircase in the entrance area, larger cloakrooms, and a newly designed area with a terrace on the upper floor.
Foyer
Acoustics and Seating
Accessibility was another important consideration during the renovation process, with an elevator now providing access from the lower level event space to the third tier. The ceiling fresco in the theater hall has been restored, and significant attention has been paid to improving the acoustics. The original seats were retained due to their excellent acoustic properties, ensuring consistent sound quality whether the seats are occupied or not. The theater’s caretaker is also delighted with the renovations, having moved into a brand new apartment across the street.
The reopening of the Theater an der Wien marks an exciting new chapter in Vienna’s cultural scene, blending tradition with modernity to create a vibrant and accessible space for audiences to enjoy live performances. With its updated facilities and enhanced visitor experience, the theater is ready to welcome back audiences and artists alike to experience the magic of live theater in Vienna.